We are focusing on internet safety and security this month. In addition to the Worry-Free Wi-Fi services available through Visionary’s managed router and the Visionary App, we wanted to share some best practices for staying safe when you are online.
Do’s and Don’ts:
DON’T: Open an attachment or click on a link from someone you don’t know. This includes attachments and links in emails, text messages, and direct messages on social media. No matter how tempting! EX: (Subject Line: Free Vacation!)
DO: Update your passwords regularly and make sure you are making the passwords challenging enough that the average person cannot guess.
DON’T: Download pictures from an unknown source online or on social media, as there is a good chance the material is explicit or contains malware or both.
DO: Monitor your children’s online activities. Check the apps and games they are using. This is a great reason to have a managed router so you can track activity and get alerts about unsafe or suspicious apps and games.
DON’T: Send money or wire transfers to people you don’t know or have not communicated with directly. Hackers are sending these requests posing as a friend, family member, or colleague.
DO: Talk to your children about internet safety. Explain to them what is normal and what your expectations are when they are online. Let them know trusted individuals will never ask them to divulge personal or compromising information or ask them to share compromising information.
DON’T: Share your password with people online. This often presents as a message from a seemingly trusted source saying that they need you to log into your account to verify something. Always check that the email is from the actual company or organization. When in doubt, contact the business or organization directly via phone to confirm the accuracy of the request.
DON’T: Share your personal information. Hackers are “spoofing” or duplicating valid phone numbers and email addresses in an attempt to get people to divulge personal information like social security numbers, dates of birth, and banking information.
If you think you might be a victim of an online scam, file a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) ic3.gov as soon as possible.
For additional tips and resources for you and your family: https://www.nsa.gov/Cybersecurity/